Yvonne sensed hostility. She reached out and tugged on Stephen's sleeve while changing the topic. "Weren't you in a meeting? Why are you suddenly here?"

"I promised Elvin and Britney that I would be back for Christmas. I had to keep my word," Stephen said calmly.

"You could have told me earlier—"

"I wanted to give you a surprise," Stephen interjected.

He looked at Otto before saying, "Now it seems more like a fright instead of a surprise."

Yvonne awkwardly cleared her throat. "What nonsense are you on about?"

"Ms. Miller only just found out that I came for the gala," Otto explained before smiling at Stephen.

"I'm really happy to meet you here too, Mr. Anderson."

Since Stephen had joined in, they were a perfect family of four. Otto wisely excused himself. "I'll let you be with your family. I won't disturb you."

"Good," Stephen responded, as if he were trying to push Otto to leave quicker.

Otto wasn't annoyed at all. He politely nodded at Yvonne before leaving.

As they saw O